Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a simple, savory loaf that comes together without yeast, making it a perfect option for busy days when you want homemade bread but don’t have the time to wait for it to rise. This bread is full of aromatic herbs and sharp cheese, making it an ideal accompaniment to soups, salads, or even as a snack on its own. It’s moist, flavorful, and the perfect balance of herbs and cheesy goodness.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Herb & Cheese Quick Bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, and garlic powder.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is well distributed throughout the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 5: Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great flavor to this bread, but you can substitute it with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or even a combination of different cheeses for extra depth of flavor.
• Herbs: Feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Simply double the amount compared to dried herbs for a stronger flavor.

Variations

• Garlic Herb Bread: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the wet ingredients for an extra garlicky flavor.
• Cheese & Chive Bread: Substitute the dried herbs with 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh chives for a different herb flavor profile.
• Spicy Herb & Cheese Bread: Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the dry ingredients for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this bread ahead of time. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days when wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.

2. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months.

3. Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried. Just double the amount of herbs called for in the recipe since fresh herbs are less concentrated in flavor.

4. What Can I Serve with Herb & Cheese Quick Bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or chili. It also makes a great savory snack or can be served alongside a salad.

Herb & Cheese Quick Bread is a savory, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any meal. With its combination of herbs, sharp cheese, and a tender crumb, this quick bread is both easy to make and absolutely delicious. Whether served with soup, salad, or simply on its own, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Happy baking!